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Story From Desert Regional Medical Center: Have You Been Told to Get a Colonoscopy?

Are you or someone you love worried about getting a colonoscopy? The best way to reduce the stress is to learn more about this simple but high-tech screening process, which can improve one’s health and even save lives.

Are you or someone you love worried about getting a colonoscopy? The best way to reduce the stress is to learn more about this simple but high-tech screening process, which can improve one’s health and even save lives.

Why would you need a colonoscopy?

Chances of colorectal cancer increase with age. About nine out of 10 people diagnosed with the disease are at least 50 years old, according to the American Cancer Society. In addition to age, other risk factors play a role, including:

Having a personal or family history of colorectal cancer

Being African-American or an Ashkenazi Jew

Eating a diet high in fat

Being physically inactive

Obesity

Smoking and heavy alcohol use

Type 2 diabetes

Having a personal history of colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease

People at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer may need to begin screening before age 50.

What does a colonoscopy do?

A colonoscopy allows your doctor to check for signs of cancer or other abnormalities in the colon and rectum.

What’s the good news?

Once you have your colonoscopy, you usually won’t need to get another one for another 10 years.

What’s the most common procedure?

It’s true—the most common procedure involves inserting a colonscope into the colon through the rectum. Patients are given medication to help them relax and keep them comfortable during the exam. Images of the colon are transmitted onto a video screen so the doctor can examine the colon and even remove polyps or tissues to see if they are cancerous. Most of them are not. The whole process usually only takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Are there other — less invasive — options?

Yes! You can ask your doctor about a less invasive virtual colonoscopy or CT colonography. This involves taking a series of X-rays to generate detailed images of the colon and rectum. While less invasive, this option may require additional testing or follow up.

Members of the editorial and news staff of the USA Today Network were not involved in the creation of this content.